1) Consider the following with reference to Article 29 and answer. a. Protects the interests of the minorities by making a provision that any citizen / section of citizens having a distinct language, script or culture have the right to conserve the same. b. Mandates that no discrimination would be done on the ground of religion, race, caste, language or any of them. c. Mandates that all minorities, whether based on religion or language, shall have the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

2) With reference to Consumer Price Index, consider the following and answer. a. It is a measure of change in retail prices of goods and services consumed by defined population group in a given area with reference to a base year. b. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has started using CPI-combined as the sole inflation measure for the purpose of monetary policy. c. Base Year of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) 2010 to 2012. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

3) Consider the following with reference to “Chillai Kalan” and answer. a. Harshest 40-day spell of winter in North Eastern part of the country. b. Chillai-Kalan is followed by Chillai-Khurd (small cold) that occurs between January 31 and February 19. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

4) Consider the following and answer. a. The song Vande Mataram, has an equal status with the National Anthem. b. It was sung for the first time before the gathering at the 12th annual session of the Indian National Congress held in 1896 in Calcutta. c. The English translation of the stanza was rendered by Sri Aurobindo. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

5) With reference to The Legal Metrology Act, 2009, consider the following and answer. a. Whoever manufactures, packs, imports, sells, distributes, delivers or otherwise transfers, offers, exposes or possesses for sale, or causes to be sold, distributed, delivered or otherwise transferred, offered, exposed for sale any pre-packaged commodity which does not conform to the declarations on the package as provided in this Act, shall be punished with fine which may extend to twenty-five thousand rupees. b. Establishments like restaurants and hotels were not bound by the Legal Metrology Act. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

6) Consider the following and answer. a. Maiden Speech is the first speech of a member elected for the first time in a new House. b. Official Languages Act 1963 allowed English to be used along with Hindi as language of parliamentary business. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

7) With reference to TB menace in India, consider the following and answer. a. UP & Maharashtra has the highest TB prevalence in India. b. 35 lakh identified Tuberculosis patients across the country will soon get Rs. 500 every month from the Centre as social support. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

8) With reference to Officers Training Academy, Chennai, consider the following and answer. a. It training establishment of the Indian Army that trains officers for the Short Service Commission. b. he Chennai school was inaugurated on January 1963, with Brigadier Ram Singh as its first Commandant. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

9) Consider the following with reference to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), and answer. a. It is governed under the management of the Indian Ministry of Defence. b. HAL built the first military aircraft in South Asia. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

10) Consider the following with reference to Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) and answer. a. The Centre has chosen Bengaluru-based Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) and Hyderabad-based Electronics Corporation of India Ltd (ECIL) to manufacture the VVPAT units. b. The VVPAT system is a new initiative of the Election Commission to ensure free and fair elections. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

11) Consider the following with reference to Wind power generation capacity, and answer. a. India had the fourth largest installed wind power capacity in the world. b. India is planning to enter into offshore wind power, with a 100 MW demonstration plant located off the Gujarat coast. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

12) With reference to ‘qualified institutional placement’, consider the following and answer. a. An Indian-listed company can raise capital from its domestic markets without the need to submit any pre-issue filings to market regulators. b. QIP guidelines were introduced to encourage Indian companies to raise funds domestically instead of tapping overseas markets.

13) Consider the following with reference to Initial Coin Offering (ICO) and answer. a. An unregulated means by which funds are raised for a new cryptocurrency venture. b. It is used by startups to bypass the rigorous and regulated capital-raising process required by venture capitalists or banks. c. It is also called an Initial Public Coin Offering (IPCO). Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

14) With reference to Cotton Production in India, consider the following and answer. a. Gujarat is the largest cotton producing state. b. India is expected to remain the world’s largest producer in 2017-18.

15) With respect to Project Beacon, consider the following and answer. a. The Project was assigned the task of development of roads. b. Project Beacon is known as “Life Line of J&K”. c. Project Beacon was bifurcated with the raising of Project “Himank” for Ladakh Region. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

16) With reference to the significance of 14th December, 2017, consider the following and answer. a. It is celebrated as the National Energy Conservation Day. b. Energy Conservation Day is organized each year by Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), under Ministry of Power. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

17) Consider the following with reference to Jawahar Rozgar Yojana and answer. a. NREP (National Rural Employment Program) and RLEGP (Rural Landless Employment Guarantee Program) were combined together to form Jawahar Rozgar Yojana . b. The main target audience of this plan was the people below poverty line. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

18) With reference to Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), consider the following and answer. a. Mexico, Japan and the United States have no immediate intention to participate. b. India is founding member of the AIIB. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

19) With reference to Juno Mission, consider the following and answer. a. The unmanned spacecraft had successfully entered Jupiter’s orbit in July 2016 after a five year journey. b. The primary goals of the mission are to find out whether Jupiter has a solid core, how its atmosphere and magnetosphere formed, and whether there is water in the gas cloud shrouding the planet. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

20) With reference to International Workshop on The Physics of Semiconductor Devices (IWPSD 2017), consider the following and answer. a. It is being jointly organized by Solid State Physics Laboratory and Indian Institute of Technology Delhi. b. The main objective of the workshop is to provide an international forum to deliberate and share information on the emerging semiconductor research and development (R&D) fields. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 13/12/17

What does the FRDI Bill do for you?

The Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill, 2017, has been red-flagged because of its“bail-in” clause (clause 52 of the draft legislation).

FRDI Bill:

• The FRDI Bill is part of a larger, more comprehensive approach by the Centre towards systematic resolution of all financial firms.
• The Bill comes together with the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code.
• It aims at finding and finalising a resolution plan to get a troubled company back on track, or, in the event of failure, ensure a quick winding up.

Why the bill!

• The need for a specific regulation rose following the 2008 financial crisis.
• The crisis witnessed a large number of high-profile bankruptcies.
• With the Centre also actively encouraging people to engage more with the banking sector — both through schemes like Jan Dhan Yojana and moves like demonetisation, it becomes important to protect savers and those joining the formal economy in case a bank or insurance firm starts failing.

Content of the Bill:

• The Bill provides for the setting up of a Resolution Corporation.
• It seeks to replace the existing Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation.
• The corporation will be tasked with monitoring financial firms, anticipating their risk of failure, taking corrective action and resolving them in case of failure.
• The corporation is also tasked with providing deposit insurance up to a certain limit yet to be specified, in the event of a bank failure.
• It will be tasked with classifying financial firms on their risk of failure — low, moderate, material, imminent, or critical.

Short comings:

• Public sector bank unions argued that several provisions in the bill are against the interests of depositors.
• It will create an environment of mistrust between the banks and depositors.
• The failure of the bill to quantify the deposits that will come under the insurance scheme has also led to worries among depositors if their interests will actually be protected.

“Bail-in” provision:

• Among other tools, the FRDI Bill also empowers the Resolution Corporation to bail-in the company.
• A bail-out is the use of public funds to inject capital into an ailing company.
• A bail-in involves the use of depositors’ funds to achieve those ends.
• This can be done either by cancelling the bank’s liabilities, or converting them into other forms, such as equity.
• This has caused a lot of concern among depositors who are worried they may lose their hard-earned money deposited with banks.
• There are concerns that the FRDI Bill may not clearly lay down the quantum of protection for deposits, or classify deposits separately.

What are the grounds behind this bail-in provision?

• The principal aim is to minimise the cost of any such failures of financial firms to taxpayers.
• The other objective is that shareholders of banks and creditors must also pay their share of costs, rather than governments or taxpayers absorbing all losses.

Government’s response:

• The government has said that India’s FRDI Bill is more depositor-friendly than that of many other jurisdictions that provide for statutory bail-ins.
• It has also said that it does not propose in any way to limit the scope of powers to extend financing and resolution support to banks, including public sector banks.

1) With reference to Indian star tortoise, consider the following and answer. a. This species of tortoise found in dry areas and scrub forest in India and Sri Lanka. b. It shows sexual dimorphism. c. The shape of this creature is presumed to be specially adapted to naturally assist it to return to a stable stance after it has been turned over. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 onlyb) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

2) Consider the following with reference to Backward Classes Commission and answer. a. President has appointed five-member commission to examine sub-categorisation of Other Backward Classes (OBCs), headed by retired Chief Justice of Delhi High Court G. Rohini. b. The Mandal Commission (Second Backward Classes Commission), was established in 1979 by the Janata Party government under Prime Minister Morarji Desai. c. Article 340 provides for the Appointment of a commission to investigate the conditions of backward classes in India every 10 year. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

3) Consider the following with reference to Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant and answer. a. It is the single largest nuclear power station in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. b. The reactors are pressurised water reactor of Russian design. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

4) With reference to Endosulfan, consider the following and answer. a. Endosulfan is an organ chlorine pesticide that induces breaks in DNA strands and disturbs the damage response mechanism found in cells. b. Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants in 2011 added it in list of banned substances and phasing it out as an agrichemical. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

6) With reference to Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), consider the following and answer. a. The NSG was founded in response to the Indian nuclear test in 1974. b. NSG has 48 participating governments. c. Namibia applied for NSG membership in 2016. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

7) Consider the following with reference to Australia Group and answer. a. The Australia Group is an informal group to control the spread of chemical and biological weapons. b. Delegations representing the members meet every year in Paris. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

8) Consider the following and answer. a. The 123 Agreement signed between the United States of America and India is known as the U.S.–India Civil Nuclear Agreement or Indo-US nuclear deal. b. As per the agreement, India agreed to separate its civil and military nuclear facilities and to place few of its civil nuclear facilities under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

9) With reference to Chabahar port, consider the following and answer. a. It has been jointly developed by India, Iran and Afghanistan. b. India views Chabahar port as strategic response to China’s development of Gwadar port in Pakistan. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

10) With reference to International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC), consider the following and answer. a. INSTC project was initiated by Russia, India and Iran in September 2000 in St. Petersburg. b. Mumbai is at the southern hub of the route. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

11) With reference to Doklam, conside the following and answer. a. It is an area with a plateau and a valley, lying near Tibet’s Chumbi Valley. b. India’s Sikkim state lies to the west of the Dongkya range, the western shoulder of the Doklam plateau. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

12) Consider the following with reference to World Trade Organization (WTO) and answer. a. It was officially commenced in 1995 under the Marrakesh Agreement. b. signed by 123 nations on April 1994, it replaced the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). c. Afghanistan became the 164th member in2016. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

13) Consider the following with reference to Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and answer. a. It is a centre for the design and development of satellite launch vehicles and associated technologies. b. It is located in Thiruvananthapuram, in the Indian state of Kerala. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

14) With respect to Navika Sagar Parikrama, consider the following and answer. a. It is Indian Navy’s all-women expedition to circumnavigate the globe to promote ocean sailing and spirit of adventure. b. INSV Tarini carrying all-women crew members of Navika Sagar Parikrama. c. It is the India’s first ever circumnavigation expedition of globe by all-women crew. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

15) Consider the following with reference to Digital Payment Security Alliance and answer. a. Google and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) announced this initiative. b. Under this initiative, banks, Fintech companies and government will work together to create awareness as users adopt digital and mobile payments. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

16) With reference to Central Information Commission consider the following and answer. a. The RTI act 2005 provides for establishment of Central and State information commissioner as a designated authority to receive and inquire into a complaint from any person. b. The Chief Information Commissioner shall not be eligible for reappointment. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

17) Consider the following and answer. a. Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), a premier semiconductor research laboratory of DRDO. b. SSPL is organising the 19th International Workshop on Physics of Semiconductor Devices (IWPSD 2017). c. The biennial event IWPSD is considered as a prominent international forum on Advanced Semiconductor Technologies. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

18) Which among the following are SEBI committees. a. Committee for review of structure of market infrastructure institutions b. Advisory Committee for the SEBI Investor Protection and Education Fund c. Primary Market Advisory Committee (PMAC) Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

19) With reference to NIC-CERT, consider the following and answer. a. All communications between government departments — Centre, State and district, as well as interactions between the government and the citizens takes place through NIC’s network. b. NIC’s (National Informatics Centre) networks handle about 500 GB of data at any given point in time. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

20) Consider the following with reference to geography of Syria and answer. a. Syria is located at the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea. b. The highest point in Syria is Mount Hermon on the Lebanese border. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 12/12/17

1) With reference to Dr. Ambedkar, consider the following and answer. a. In 1955, he founded the Bharatiya Bauddha Mahasabha, or the Buddhist Society of India. b. The Buddha and His Dhamma, Dr.Ambedkar’s work. was published posthumously. c. Buddha or Karl Marx, Dr. Amdedkar’s another work, was also completed in 1956. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

2) Consider the following with reference to M. S. Swaminathan and answer. a. Swaminathan has been described by the United Nations Environment Programme as “the Father of Economic Ecology.” b. Swaminathan is known as “Indian Father of Green Revolution” c. “50 Years of Green Revolution – An Anthology of Research Papers” is authored by M.S.Sawminathan. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

3) Consider the following and answer. a. Apart from Indian national anthem Rabindranath Tagore has written national anthem of Bangladesh ‘Amar Sonar Bangla’ and also the lyrics of Sri Lanka’s National Anthem (Sri Lanka Matha). b. The song Vande Mataram, composed in Sanskrit by Bankimchandra Chatterji, was incorporated in his famous novel Ananda Math (1882). Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

4) Consider the following with reference to Mi-8 helicopter and answer. a. Mi-8 was also called Pratap in the IAF. b. The Mi-8s were inducted into the IAF in 1972. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

5) Consider the following with reference to Non-Proliferation Treaty and answer. a. It is an international treaty whose objective is to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology. b. Non-proliferation, disarmament, and the right to peacefully use nuclear technology are considered as three pillars of the treaty. c. Following India’s nuclear tests earlier that month, Pakistan conducted two sets of nuclear tests, the Chagai-I and Chagai-II. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

6) Consider the following and answer. a. International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (is a global civil society coalition working to promote adherence to and full implementation of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. b. The campaign received the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize for its work. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

7) With reference to Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI), consider the following and answer. a. It was given statutory powers through the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. b. It covers Individuals, Companies, Limited Liability Partnerships and Partnership firms. c. It handles the cases using two tribunals like NCLT(National company law tribunal) and Debt recovery tribunal. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

9) With reference to Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance (FRDI) Bill 2017 , consider the following and answer. a. Bill provides for the setting up of a Resolution Corporation — to replace the existing Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation. b. The Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation provides deposit insurance of up to ₹1 lakh. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

10) Consider the following with reference to gypsum and answer. a. Iran is the world’s second largest producer. b. It is widely mined and is used as a fertilizer Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

11) With reference to National Human Rights Commission of India, consider the following and answer. a. It was given a statutory basis by the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. b. A Chairperson, should be retired Chief Justice of India. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

12) With reference to Raja Raja Chola I, consider the following and answer. a. Chola their domains stretching from Sri Lanka in the south to Kalinga in the north. b. Raja Raja built the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur. c. Raja Raja Chola I was succeeded by his son Rajendra Chola. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

13) With reference to Start-ups in India, consider the following and answer. a. India is now the world’s fastest growing and the third largest start-up ecosystem. b. The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), is the nodal body for Start-up India. c. The earliest form of start-ups in India was the cottage industries which led to diversification of the traditional economies from agriculture to industry and services. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

14) With reference to Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), consider the following and answer. a. Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) it is India’s chief anti-smuggling intelligence, investigations and operations agency. b. The Directorate is run by officers from the Central Board of Excise and Customs. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

15) Consider the following with respect Fishery in India and answer. a. India’s rank as the second-largest fish producer in the world. b. Indian aquaculture was limited to less than ten species of fish, while China cultures over a 100 species on a commercial scale. c. 21 November is noted as World Fisheries Day. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

16) Consider the following with reference to “Mahakavi Bharati and answer. a. He grew a beard and wore a turban due to his admiration of Sikhs. b. He started editing the Tamil weekly India and the English newspaper Bala Bharatham. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

17) Consider the following with reference to ‘OP Sahayam’, and answer. a. Indian Navy exercise for undertaking Search and Rescue (SAR) and providing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster relief (HADR) material support in the aftermath of Cyclonic Storm ‘OCKHI’. b. Nine naval ships including frontline ships from Western Naval Command INS Chennai, Kolkata and four types of aircraft including long range maritime reconnaissance aircraft P8I, Dornier, SeaKing and Chetak were continued to be deployed. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

18) With reference to International Groundwater Conference on Groundwater, consider the following and answer. a. 7th International Groundwater Conference on Groundwater Vision 2030 was held in National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee.

b. Over exploitation of ground water has started threatening the sustenance of agricultural activities in many key regions in the country including Punjab, Bundelkhand.

20) With reference to ASEAN-India Connectivity Summit, consider the following and answer. a. AICS is being organized by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in collaboration with AIC and CII. b. The ASEAN India Connectivity Summit(AICS) on the theme: Powering Digital and Physical Linkages for Asia in the 21st Century. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 11/12/17

The presence of antibiotic resistance in the environment should worry us

• Until now, India’s fight against antibiotic-resistance was focused on getting people to cut down on unnecessary antibiotic consumption.
• But, for the first time, the 2017 National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance talks about limiting antibiotics in effluent being dumped by drug makers into the environment.
• This is because when these drugs taint soil and water, the scores of microbes that live there grow drug-resistant.
But only a tiny proportion of these environmental microbes trigger disease in humans. So why is resistance among them a problem?

Environment-pathogen link:

• The answer lies in the intimacy shared between environmental bacteria and human pathogens.
• Typically, a pathogen, say Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae), that causes pneumonia, can take two routes to antibiotic resistance.
o The first is for its own genes to mutate spontaneously to help fight the drug.
 This is a long-winded route, because mutations take time to spread through a bacterial population.
o The second route, a shortcut known as horizontal gene transfer, is for the bug to borrow resistance genes from its neighbours.
• Scientists believe that many human pathogens today picked up their resistance genes from the environment through this shortcut.

Ciprofloxacin:

• Take ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic launched by the German company Bayer in the mid-1980s.
• Ciprofloxacin was the most effective among the quinolone class of antibiotics in fighting gram-negative bacteria such as K. pneumoniae.
• Because bacteria would need multiple resistance mutations to fight cipro, and because such multiple mutations are rare, scientists thought resistance was unlikely.
• Yet, within a decade, ciprofloxacin resistance had spread globally.

Horizontal gene transfer:

• Eventually, scientists learnt that bacteria such as K. pneumoniae had been helped along by horizontal gene transfer.
• They seemed to have borrowed a gene called qnrA.
o which conferred resistance to ciprofloxacin, from a sea and freshwater bacterium called Shewanella algae.
o Today, researchers think the Shewanella species may be the environmental source for qnr (quinolone resistance) genes.

The antibiotic age:

• In fact, phylogenetic studies suggest that the earliest antibiotic-resistance genes in nature are millions of years old.
• But when humans starting manufacturing antibiotics in the 1950s, a dramatic shift occurred.
o Large doses of these drugs seeped into the environment through poultry and human excreta, and waste water from drug makers and hospitals.
o This led to an explosion of resistance genes in soil and water microbes.
• n 2007, Swedish investigators found that water in a pharma effluent treatment plant had both high levels of ciprofloxacin as well as novel resistance genes, never seen in microbes elsewhere.
• When the Swedish researchers compared the numbers of qnr genes in the faeces of people living in Hyderabad’s antibiotic-polluted regions and elsewhere, they found no difference.
o This seems to imply that the flow of genes from the environment to humans is a rare event.
o Instead, most transmission happens from one human to another.
• But the rarity isn’t reason to lower our guard.
• We live in unprecedented times where environmental bacteria, pathogens and antibiotics are mixing like never before.

Public relations disaster:

• In 2009, when a deadly resistance gene was discovered in a Swedish patient who had recently travelled to New Delhi, researchers assumed the gene was picked up in India and named it the New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase 1 (NDM-1).
• The Indian government saw this nomenclature as a public relations disaster, arguing that there was no evidence of the gene’s Indian origin.
• Whether NDM-1 came from New Delhi or not is still a bone of contention.

Way Forward:

• But the worry is that if India doesn’t move quickly, wastewater in pharma clusters could give rise to new genes as dangerous as NDM-1.
• Once such genes jump to humans, they will, no doubt, blaze their way across the planet.
When this happens, it will be more than a public relations disaster for India, It will be a death sentence for Indians as well as thousands across the globe.

World awaits ‘fair winds’ as Buenos Aires hosts trade talks

India is set to retain food security right and the protection of poor farmers and fisher-folk as top priorities at the upcoming meeting of the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) highest decision-making body in Buenos Aires.

Ministerial conference:

• The WTO Ministerial Conference, to be held in South America for the first time
o Argentina will be hosting the biennial event from December 10-13 in its capital, Buenos Aires.

Agenda:

• The agenda for the multilateral trade negotiations
o Ways to advance e-commerce
o Investment facilitation
o Measures to help small firms participate effectively in the global marketplace

India’s TFS proposal:

In addition to prioritising farm issues, India is keen to push forward its proposal on a Trade Facilitation in Services (TFS) Agreement
• The TFS proposal aims to ensure relaxation of norms for movement of skilled workers and professionals across borders for short-term work
• In its comments to the WTO on December 5, India proposed “a well-structured post-Buenos Aires meeting work programme on services” incorporating the TFS elements

Public Stockholding:

India is among the many countries which feel that the current WTO norms on public stockholding are very restrictive and prevent governments from meeting their people’s food security needs

Special Safeguarding Mechanism (SSM):

Another outstanding agricultural issue India wants to see resolved is a Special Safeguard Mechanism (SSM) for developing countries
• The SSM would permit developing nations like India to temporarily raise tariffs to counter import surges or price declines of farm items, and thereby protect their farmers. While India is learnt to be backing the Philippines’ proposal for adoption of a price-based SSM

E-commerce:

On e-commerce, a WTO note said the focus is on four areas:
• The future of the Work Programme (covering issues related to trade arising from global e-commerce)
• The moratorium (practice of agreeing at every Ministerial Conference to not impose customs duties on electronic transmissions, until the next Ministerial Conference)
• Possible negotiations on e-commerce, and
• The setting up of a working group or other institutional structure

Limiting harmful fisheries:

• On the negotiations to limit harmful fisheries subsidies, India is batting for continuation of subsidies to small and subsistence fisher-folk.

1) With reference to Wassenaar Arrangement, consider the following and answer. a. India as the 42nd member of the organisation which aims to regulate trade and use of dual use technology. b. The People’s Republic of China and Israel are not members. c. It is not a treaty, and therefore is not legally binding. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

2) Consider the following with reference to section 497 of IPC and answer. a. Section 497 of IPC criminalises the offence of adultery. b. As per the Indian law, a woman cannot be punished for the offence of adultery. c. If someone “lives in adultery”, the partner can file for divorce. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

3) With reference to Cooum, consider the following and answer. a. The northern part of the Buckingham Canal joins the Cooum near the old Central Jail. b. The 2004 tsunami cleaned the mouth of the river. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

4) Consider the following with reference to Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ) and answer a. The Supreme Court of India delivered a ruling on December 30, 1996 regarding industries covered under the TTZ. b. The TTZ comprises over 40 protected monuments including three World Heritage Sites — the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

5) Consider the following with reference to National Action Plan to combat Antimicrobial Resistance and answer. a. Ministers signed a ‘Delhi Declaration’ to contain Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). b. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has set up a National Anti-Microbial Resistance Research and Surveillance Network (AMRRSN) to enable compilation of data of AMR at the national level. c. National Programme for Containment of AMR is under implementation in 12th Five Year Plan. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

6) Consider the following with reference to The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2016 and answer. a. A District Screening Committee would issue a certificate of identity to recognise transgender persons. b. Certificate would be granted by the District Magistrate on the recommendation of a Screening Committee. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

7) Consider the following with reference to Naga Pact and answer. a. Naga Peace Accord was signed between the National Socialist Council of Nagalim-Isak-Muivah [NSCN (IM)] and the Government of India. b. NSCN-K is a banned terrorist outfit that carries out an armed struggle to establish a People’s Republic of Nagaland. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

8) Consider the following and answer. a. China has set up a ‘logistics base’ for its navy in Djibouti, located in the Indian Ocean region in the Horn of Africa. b. China acquired Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port on a 99-year lease in a $1.1 billion debt swap deal. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

9) With respect to Yamal project, consider the following and answer. a. It is a long-term plan to exploit and bring to the markets the vast natural gas reserves in the Yamal Peninsula, canada. b. Yamal peninsula is estimated to hold the largest gas reserves in the world. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

10) With reference to Peacekeeping by the United Nations, consider the following and answer. a. The United Nations Charter gives the United Nations Security Council the power and responsibility to take collective action to maintain international peace and security. b. The financial resources of UN Peacekeeping operations are the collective responsibility of UN Member States. c. Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh are among the largest individual contributors with around 8,000 units each. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

11) With respect to National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT), consider the following and answer. a. It is a quasi-judicial body in India that adjudicates issues relating to companies in India. b. The NCLAT has the power under the Companies Act to adjudicate proceedings. c. Decisions of the NCLT may be appealed to the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal. The decisions of NCLAT is final without any further provision of appealing. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

12) Consider the following with respect to Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code Bill, 2016 and answer. a. The code seeks to ensure time-bound settlement of insolvency. b. It provides for setting up Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) to regulate professionals. c. The code seeks to give a push to the ease of doing business in the country. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

13) Consider the following with reference to Pharma sector of India and answer. a. Indian pharmaceuticals market is the third largest in the world in terms of volume. b. . India is the largest provider of generic drugs globally. c. Union Cabinet allowed FDI up to 100 per cent under the automatic route for manufacturing of medical devices subject to certain conditions. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

14) With reference to Aadhar, consider the following and answer. a. The main objective of aadhar is to ensure good governance and for efficient transparent and targeted delivery of subsidies, benefits and services to the Individual. b. As far as privacy of an individual is concerned these information are deemed to be sensitive under Aadhar Act, 2016. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

15) Consider the following and answer. a. After the Xinhai Revolution (1911–12), Dalai Lama refused any Chinese title and declared himself ruler of an independent Tibet. b. In 1914 the Tibetan government signed the Simla Accord with Britain, ceding the South Tibet region to British India. c. Tibet has been called the “Water Tower” of Asia. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

16) Consider the following and answer. a. Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is an international organisation involving a group of countries only in South East Asia. b. The ADB is BIMSTEC’s development partner. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

17) Consider the following with respect to ’Bodhi Parva and answer. a. ’Bodhi Parva: BIMSTEC Festival of Buddhist Heritage” aims to look at the different aspects of Buddhism, in today’s context. b. India is hosting the “Bodhi Parva: BIMSTEC Festival of Buddhist Heritage” from 8 to 10 December as part of celebrations of 20th anniversary of BIMSTEC. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

18) Consider the following with reference to SUSTAINABLE URBAN TRANSPORT PROGRAMME (2009-2018) and answer. a. The project, in partnership with the Ministry of Urban Development, Government of India, funded by Global Environment Facility. b. Achieving sustainable urban transport has become a primary objective with the adoption of National Urban Transport Policy (NUTP) Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

19) Consider the following with reference to Sovereign Gold Bonds and answer. a. These bonds were launched under umbrella sovereign gold bond scheme with an objective to reduce demand for physical gold. b. It will be of 4 kg for individual and HUF (Hindu Undivided Family) and 20 kg for trusts. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

20) With reference to Integrated Command & Control Center projects, consider the following and answer. a. It enables fast and efficient citizen service delivery in an integrated way, are being developed in 20 cities. b. 10 more cities have issued tenders for developing command and control centers in their cities. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 9/12/17

1) Consider the following with reference to UIDAI and Aadhaar and answer. a. Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), a statutory authority, under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, under the provisions of the Aadhaar Act, 2016. b. Aadhaar is a proof of residence and not a proof of citizenship. c. Prior to the enactment of the Act, UIDAI functioned as an attached office of Planning Commission. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 8/12/17

2) With reference to Project Ghatak, consider the following and answer. a. A project has direct oversight from the Prime Minister’s Office and the National Security Advisor. b. Ghatak began as the DRDO’s Autonomous Unmanned Research Aircraft – AURA. c. Ghatak will be powered by a modified dry thrust version of the Kaveri engine. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 8/12/17

3) Consider the following with reference to characteristics of depressions and answer. a. A low-pressure system, also known as a depression occurs when the weather is dominated by stable conditions. b. They are often accompanied by fronts. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 8/12/17

4) Consider the following and answer. a. Chilka Lake, is the largest brackish water coastal lake in India. b. The coastal plain of Odisha is called the “Hexadeltaic region” Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 8/12/17

5) Consider the following with reference to National Green Tribunal and answer. a. The Tribunal has Original Jurisdiction on matters of “substantial question relating to environment” b. The tribunal does not follow civil law. it follows principles of natural justice. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 8/12/17

6) Consider the following with reference to Special Marriage act and answer. a. Special Marriage Act, 1954 is an Act of the Parliament of India which covers Indian nationals in foreign countries as well. b. Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Jains, Sikhs, Christians, Parsis, or Jews can also perform marriage under the Special Marriage Act, 1954 Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 8/12/17

7) With reference to IIP, consider the following and answer. a. The all India IIP is a composite indicator that measures the short-term changes. b. It is compiled and published monthly by the Central Statistical Organisation (CSO). c. The current base year is 2011-2012. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 8/12/17

8) With reference to INS Arihant, consider the following and answer. a. India’s first indigenously built, nuclear armed submarine. b. The vessel was built under the Advanced Technology Vessel project. c. India will become one of only six countries in the world with the knowledge of designing, engineering and operating a nuclear submarine. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 8/12/17

9) With reference to Kumbh mela, consider the following and answer. a. It is the festival of the sacred Pitcher and the largest peaceful congregation of pilgrims on earth. b. The festival is held at Allahabad, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nasik every four years by rotation c. Along with Nowruz, Kumbh Mela is listed in the UNESCO’s world intangible cultural Heritage in 2017. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 8/12/17

10) Consider the following and answer. a. Union Government is going to observe birth anniversary of the father of Indian Constitution B R Ambedkar (April 14) as “Water Day” in the country. b. Ambedkar founded the Independent Labour Party, which contested the 1937 Bombay election to the Central Legislative Assembly. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 8/12/17

11) With respect to UDYA scheme, consider the following. a. All but Odisha, West Bengal and Nagaland – have opted to join the Centrally-sponsored UDAY. b. The scheme is optional for the states to join. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 8/12/17

12) With reference to Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), consider the following and answer. a. Parliament amended the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act, 1934 for giving a statutory backing to Monetary Policy Committee (MPC). b. Under the Monetary Policy Framework Agreement, the RBI will be responsible for containing inflation targets at 4% (with a standard deviation of 2%) in the medium term. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 8/12/17

13) With reference to formation of Cyclones, consider the following and answer. a. A tropical cyclone is a rapidly rotating storm system characterized by a High-pressure center. b. Cyclonic wind blows counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and blowing clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 8/12/17

1) With reference to Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, consider the following and answer. a. Tadoba Andhari Reserve is the largest national park in Maharashtra. b. Park is home to other mammals like Sloth Bear, Leopard, Rusty Spotted Cat also. c. It represents Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Teak Forests in the Tiger habitat. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17

2) Consider the following and answer. a. Election commission gives recognition of parties and allotment of symbols via the authority vested in it via the Representation of The People (Amendment) Act, 1951. b. This duty of accepting or rejecting a nomination paper is performed by the returning officer who notifies to all the contesting candidates the date, time and place for the formal scrutiny of nomination papers. c. The other election commissioners cannot be removed from office without recommendation of the CEC. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17

3) Consider the following with reference to Kautilya and answer. a. He is known as Indian Machiavelli in the western world. b. Chanakya worked two millenniums earlier than Machiavelli. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 6/12/17

4) With reference to Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), consider the following and answer. a. Parliament amended the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act, 1934 for giving a statutory backing to Monetary Policy Committee (MPC). b. Under the Monetary Policy Framework Agreement, the RBI will be responsible for containing inflation targets at 4% (with a standard deviation of 2%) in the medium term. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 6/12/17

5) With reference to Universal Health Coverage (UHC), consider the following and answer. a. Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is free access to healthcare to all, enabled and guaranteed by the government and provided only by public sector. b. UHC project, which was declared a priority for the 12th Plan period (2012-17), has been shelved due to fiscal constraints during the NDA Government. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 6/12/17

6) Recently Bamboo was taken out ‘tree’ category from Indian forest act by President’s ordinance, with this, consider the following and answer. a. It will encourage bamboo plantation by farmers in private lands. b. The omission exempts it from requiring permits for felling or transportation of bamboo grown in non-forest areas. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 6/12/17

7) Consider the following with reference to Wassenaar Arrangement and answer. a. It is an Arrangement on Export Controls for Conventional Arms and Dual-Use Goods and Technologies, b. It is a multilateral export control regime (MECR) with 41 participating states. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 6/12/17

8) Consider the following with reference to Jallianwala Bagh Tragedy and answer a. Rabindranath Tagore renounced his knighthood by condemning the incident. b. Gandhi returned the Kaiser-i-Hind Gold medal given to him for his work during Boer war. c. Gandhi declared that the British have lost the moral right to rule this country. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17

9) Consider the following and answer. a. The state executive is made of Governor, Chief Minister, Council of Ministers only. b. Governor in a state in India is actually an agent of the President c. The office of Governor is modeled as much like the provincial Governors of Canada. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17

10) Consider the following with reference to Kani Tribes and answer. a. Kani is a tribe living in the Western Ghats area of Kerala, India. b. A recently discovered species of tree-dwelling crab has been named Kani maranjandu after the tribe. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17

11) With reference to Hague Convention, consider the following and answer. a. Provides an expeditious method to return a child internationally abducted by a parent from one member country to another. b. India has decided not to sign and ratify the convention. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17

12) Consider the following with reference to International Solar Alliance (ISA) and answer. a. It is the first treaty-based international intergovernmental organisation to be based out of India. b. So far, 19 countries are part of the compact including Maldives. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17

13) With reference to cyclone signal hoisted at ports, consider the following and answer. a. India uses an elaborate signal system ranging from 1 to 11. b. The IMD sends information periodically to ports: usually four times a day, and once every three hours in case of a cyclone. c. Signal 11: This means all communications have failed with cyclone warning office. Choose the correct code a) 1,2 only B) 2,3 ONLY c) 1,3 only d) All the Above Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17

14) Consider the following with reference to International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and answer. a. It is a specialised agency of the United Nations dedicated to eradicating poverty and hunger in rural areas of developing countries. b. Membership in IFAD is open to all member states of the United Nations or its specialised agencies or the International Atomic Energy Agency. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17

15) Consider the following and answer. a. Quality Council of India (QCI) is an autonomous body that assures quality standards across all spheres of economic and social activities. b. Quality Council of India had been commissioned by the Ministry of Urban Development to conduct an extensive survey to measure the success rate of Swachh Bharat Mission. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17

16) With reference to Non-Performing Assets in India, consider the following and answer. a. Public sector banks are more stressed than their private sector counterparts. b. IDBI Bank and Indian Overseas Bank have NPA ratios of over 20 per cent. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17

17) With reference to AMRUT scheme, consider the following and answer. a. It is an urban transformation scheme with the focus of the urban renewal projects to establish infrastructure. b. Union Government provides an assistance of 50 per cent of project cost for cities with a population of up to 10 lakhs each. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17

18) With reference to Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), consider the following and answer. a. It is an autonomous organisation of the Government of India, involved in India’s external cultural relations, through cultural exchange with other countries. b. It was founded by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the first Education Minister of independent India. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17

19) Consider the following and answer. a. The coverage of the Agreement on Agriculture also includes wines, spirits and tobacco products, as well as fibres (such as cotton). b. Blue Box contains direct payment subsidies which can be increased without limit, so long as payments are linked to production-limiting programs. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17

20) With reference to the challenges faced by PDS, consider the following and answer. a. High procurement and high MSP on rice and wheat has led led to the high production of rice and wheat neglecting other nutritious crop. b. Intended beneficiary are not targeted.eg.ghost ration card. Which of the above statements is/are correct? [A] 1 Only [B] 2 Only [C] Both 1 & 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 Refer “The Hindu”- 7/12/17